The British government has officially confirmed that the cost of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) will increase from £10 to £16, or approximately €20 / US$21, starting April 9, 2025. This 60% rise is intended to help fund the immigration system without additional reliance on public finances.
Originally announced in January as part of broader immigration and nationality service reforms, the adjustment aligns administrative fees with processing costs while generating revenue from international travel.
Travelers planning to visit the UK in the coming months can still apply for an ETA at the current £10 rate before the price increase takes effect. This applies to all travelers required to obtain an ETA, including European nationals, for whom the requirement becomes mandatory on April 2, 2025. Since ETAs are valid for two years, applying early allows travelers to secure the lower fee.
Despite the price increase, the ETA application process remains straightforward. Visa-exempt travelers can apply online through the official UK government website or the “UK ETA” mobile app, with approvals typically issued within minutes or hours. Applicants need to upload a copy of their passport and a passport photo before answering a few personal questions.
The UK’s adoption of the ETA system and its fee adjustment reflect a broader global trend, with many countries implementing electronic travel authorizations to enhance border security and manage entry procedures more efficiently.
